Rosita Missoni, co-founder of the luxury clothing brand Missoni, passed away on Wednesday at her home in Sumirago, Northern Italy, at the age of 93. Her death was confirmed by Angela Mariani, a communications consultant for the brand.
Starting as a small venture in 1953 alongside her husband, Ottavio Missoni, the brand quickly evolved into a prominent fashion house known for its distinctive colorful striped and zigzagged knitwear, contributing to Milan's status as a hub of Italian high fashion.
Missoni’s designs, characterized by vibrant colors and unique patterns, gained international acclaim, particularly in the 1970s. Fashion critic Bernadine Morris noted in 1979 that Missoni's knitted garments had become status symbols, elevating knitwear to an art form.
Initially selling their products anonymously, the Missonis eventually gained recognition, with their designs featured in high-profile publications and sold at prestigious retailers like La Rinascente in Milan. Their first runway shows took place in 1966, showcasing imaginative environments that combined fashion with performance art.
Despite an early setback in Florence due to a controversial presentation, the Missonis continued to show their collections in Milan, drawing attention from the American fashion press and establishing a foothold in international fashion.
In 1978, they showcased their work at the Whitney Museum of American Art in New York, marking a significant milestone in their career. They later expanded into stage work, designing opera costumes for Milan’s Teatro alla Scala.
As the company transitioned into the 1990s, the Missonis began to pass leadership to their children, with Angela Missoni taking the helm of design, leading to the establishment of multiple sub-brands under the Missoni name.
Rosita Missoni was born on November 20, 1931, in Golasecca, Lombardy, into a textile-manufacturing family. Her early experiences in the family factory shaped her aesthetic sensibilities and skills in fashion design.
She met Ottavio Missoni in 1948, and they married in 1953. Together, they built a brand that became synonymous with high fashion and creativity. Ottavio passed away in May 2013, shortly after the death of their son Vittorio. Rosita is survived by two children, a brother, nine grandchildren, and ten great-grandchildren.
In her later years, Rosita continued to play an active role as creative director of the Missoni Home line and was involved in family gatherings at their home near the factory, fostering a legacy that intertwines family with business.